When you think of a rifle, most of us think of a long firearm, but the definition is not so clear-cut – sometimes this term partially overlaps with a hunting rifle. In addition, the rifle is somewhat different from the shotgun, which is also classified as a long weapon. Rifles as a category of weapons developed over hundreds of years (in Europe from about the 14th century), while modern weapons, as we know them today, were gradually created during the 20th century (until today).

Assault rifles are a separate category of rifles, which differ from other variants in that they do not use standard rifle cartridges. Other modern rifles are divided into single-shot (today used more or less only for hunting purposes), repeating, self-loading and self-acting (automatic).

However, we can also divide rifles according to other parameters. For example, according to the number of barrels, according to the type of ammunition used or according to the type of bore. The vast majority of rifles today are equipped with a barrel with a grooved bore, the smooth bore is more of a historical matter.